Can you explain the reason behind this new strategy as Kawasaki enters its fifth season year in MotoGP?
The strategy has been set by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. and this will enable KHI to have control over the team in all areas, including budgets, staff, resources and management. It is completely normal that if KHI are providing the backing for the Kawasaki MotoGP project, that they also have control of the business. Q: Does Kawasaki have a long-term plan for MotoGP? A: Yes, and there is support within the company for a very long-term view of participation in MotoGP, which is the number one motorcycle championship in the world. There is already a five year plan in place through to 2011 for Kawasaki Motor Racing, which will show that MotoGP has become an important marketing tool for the company. Q: Where will the new team be based? A: Our European base will be in The Netherlands, at Herleen just south of Amsterdam, where we will have an office, warehouse and workshop facility. This will be the operational and logistical base for the MotoGP team although all the engineering, design an